The Apocalyptic Queen's Werewolf Journey (Thora and Darius) novel Chapter 154

**Shadows Hearts by Joseph King**

**Chapter 154: All Eyes on Wolffang**

Within the imposing walls of the Astralis Empire’s Military Headquarters, a heavy silence enveloped the conference room, thick enough to cut with a knife. The air was charged with anticipation, and the weight of unspoken thoughts hung over the gathered officers like a storm cloud, ready to unleash its fury.

At the head of the table, Tony, the Grand Marshal, finally broke the stillness, his voice steady but urgent. “The Lycan King has made it abundantly clear: we must accelerate our partnership with the Ciphers without delay. Failure to act swiftly will grant other empires the chance to exploit our vulnerabilities, and that poses a significant threat to the very foundation of Astralis.”

A lieutenant general, his brow furrowed in concern, interjected. “Grand Marshal Lawson, why are we so bound to the Ciphers? Why not consider other arms suppliers? There must be alternatives that could serve us better.”

Tony’s expression hardened as he replied, “This situation transcends mere partnership. If we let this opportunity slip through our fingers, we will be handing it over to our rivals on a silver platter. For Astralis, that would equate to a dire risk.”

Hugo, sitting nearby, leaned forward, his voice grave and filled with conviction. “The stakes are too high for indecision. We cannot afford to be complacent.”

Lonnie, his eyes sharp with skepticism, turned his gaze toward Hugo. “General Stanton, why not delegate this matter to Wolffang? What have they accomplished since their inception? It’s been nearly half a year, and all we’ve seen is an endless flow of funds. Yet, where are the results? Our empire shouldn’t be financing mere freeloaders!”

The moment Lonnie’s words slipped from his lips, a palpable tension filled the room, and all eyes converged on Hugo, scrutinizing his reaction.

Hugo’s expression darkened, his jaw tightening at Lonnie’s pointed critique. The three marshals seated at the table exchanged furtive glances, their discomfort evident. They were acutely aware that they lacked the authority to question the operations of Wolffang, a unit that reported directly to the Lycan King and fell under Hugo’s command.

Yet, Lonnie’s concerns were not unfounded. The empire’s resources were not infinite, and the notion of pouring vast amounts of money into a unit that seemed to be achieving little was bound to foster resentment, even if it was left unspoken. Lonnie had harbored dissatisfaction ever since Wolffang’s establishment, and his antagonism toward Hugo was evident in his biting remarks.

Hugo’s response was icy, cutting through the tension like a blade. “General Bell, I stated this clearly half a year ago. Wolffang operates independently of the military command structure and is not subject to your oversight. Their operations are classified at the highest level of secrecy. Thus, you will not receive reports on their activities or whereabouts.”

The smile that had danced on Lonnie’s lips vanished as quickly as it had appeared.

“I am aware of your grievances since Wolffang’s inception, General Bell. However, you must recognize that their security clearance surpasses that of any other unit. I advise you to choose your words wisely.”

The implication was unmistakable: some questions were better left unasked, especially for someone of Lonnie’s rank, who clearly lacked the clearance to delve into Wolffang’s operations.

Lonnie’s face flushed with indignation, his voice rising in intensity. “If Wolffang can execute this mission flawlessly, I promise I will never bring this up again!”

Tony, unable to contain himself any longer, interjected with a sharp rebuke. “Enough of this bickering! What is the purpose of this argument?”

Hugo, embodying the fiery spirit of a soldier, stood tall, his resolve unwavering. “Rest assured, Grand Marshal Lawson. I will ensure that Wolffang carries out this mission, and I guarantee its successful completion!”

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